Guide to AAT
There are many accounting qualifications to consider - some just give you a grasp of the basics while others are more advanced and take in management issues as well as the more technical accountancy training.
Different qualifications have different entry requirements, exemptions, study methods, fees and timeframes. Below is a brief outline of the AAT, one of the five major accountancy qualifications, including a web address where you can obtain more detailed information and submit questions.
AAT
The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT), is the professional body for Accounting Technicians. It has more than 100,000 members worldwide and was formed in 1980. Accounting Technicians work in a wide range of accounting and finance jobs, from accounts clerks to accounts manager roles.
The AAT awards National Vocational Qualifications and Scottish Vocational Qualifications in Accounting at levels 2, 3 and 4. The AAT scheme is sponsored by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy, the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland. These institutes provide fast-track entry or exemptions into their qualification to AAT-qualified students.
AAT students are assessed in two ways: 'Devolved Assessment', often related to practical activities, vocational experience and voluntary activities; and 'Central Assessment', consisting of assessments set and marked by the AAT. Central Assessments are held in June and December and the AAT says students are allowed plenty of time to draft, present and check their answers.
For up-to-date information, visit www.aat.co.uk.
